Two members of Airdrie’s Citizens on Patrol (COP) were recognized by RCMP Inspector Gordon Sage for helping the victim of a shooting on Sept. 27. Sage recognized the members at a meeting of COP on Dec. 17.
“It was pretty traumatic. When you come across someone who’s been shot, it’s a lot to deal with,” Sage said. “They were also critical in helping us move the investigation forward. They did everything perfectly right. They started the process to get us involved and the ambulance involved.
“I’m a huge supporter of COP. (Giving out the award) was just the right thing to do. They did a great job and they needed to be recognized.”
Sage presented the two members, David Martin and Sandra Broderick, with the Detachment Commander’s Certificate of Appreciation.
“They were pretty shocked. Sometimes we have to recognize the great work by people. These people do this of their own free time and own free will and they have a definite concern for their community. It’s the least we can do to say thanks.”
COP President Ennio Ricci said he was thrilled the two were singled out to receive the recognition.
“If it wasn’t for these two, the guy would be dead. In fact, he wants to meet with them,” he said.
The two COP members were on patrol at approximately 1:25 a.m. when they came across a man on the ground outside the businesses on Railway Avenue, stopped the car and got out to see if the individual needed help.
“As they were talking to him, they saw some blood so they started searching on him and could see he got (injured),” Ricci said. “Right away they called an ambulance.”
According to RCMP, the 39-year-old victim is expected to make a complete recovery.
RCMP arrested two men in connection with the early morning shooting in October.
Michael Sharman, 35, of Calgary and Matthew Van Shiak, 21, of no fixed address are charged with numerous offenses including aggravated assault, pointing a firearm, carrying a concealed weapon, unauthorized possession of a weapon, possession of a weapon contrary to a prohibition order, assault and uttering threats.
Sage said he presented two Detachment Commander’s Certificates of Appreciation to RCMP members this year at the detachment Christmas party.
“There were two members who climbed up on a rooftop to save two girls who were threatening suicide. They successfully talked them down.”
Constable Erin Sowers and Constable Michael Penman were recognized for their efforts relating to the incident, which occurred on Aug. 29. The two girls climbed up on the roof of their group home.
“We don’t expect our members to crawl out on rooftops, but they did. It’s one of those things where they went the extra mile,” Sage said.
